March to the Playoffs Begins

Throughout the month of March, the Ohio Machine gave away a daily prizes to Season Ticket Holders as part of the March to the Season promotion which celebrated the start of the 2014 season. After nearly 70 winners, the grand prize winner was announced on March 31. Pete MacKenzie, as Season Ticket Holder since 2012, was randomly selected as the grand prize winner and won a trip for two to the 2014 season opener in Charlotte.

MacKenzie, a Worthington High School graduate, grew up in Columbus at the same time lacrosse was growing in Ohio. He later began coaching his son’s youth lacrosse team, and with the Ohio State program growing and the addition of the Machine, MacKenzie wanted to be a part of the Columbus lacrosse craze.

“I am reasonably sure we were one of the first families to commit and support the Machine,” MacKenzie said. “The world-class skills the Machine players show on the field have already made an extraordinary impact on the practice of lacrosse in central Ohio. The guys are part of our community, and are passionate about sharing their skills with the youth of central Ohio.”

Being a season ticket holder has a lot of perks for MacKenzie. Watching the skilled play of the Major League Lacrosse players and sharing the experience with other fans keeps him coming back with friends, especially those new to the game.

“I have yet to bring or give tickets to a ‘rookie’ fan who wasn’t highly impressed and entertained, if not hooked,” MacKenzie said. “The good food, good service, friendly staff and special venue all make for a really unique experience.”

Winning the grand prize in the March to the Season promotion was an exciting moment for a well-deserving fan. This will not be the first time MacKenzie watches the Machine in an opponent’s stadium, and he is looking forward to experiencing the Charlotte venue and cheering on the Machine as they throw the hounds off the scent.

“I’m excited to watch the game of lacrosse being played by the most skilled players in the world,” MacKenzie said. “Winning with authority and deft will be nice, too.”

The 2014 season kicks off April 26 in Charlotte. After three road games to open the season, the Machine returns to Selby Stadium on May 17 for its home opener against the New York Lizards at 8 p.m.